Superyacht Australia's strong Auckland presence

WITH New Zealand such a close neighbour for the Australian marine sector Superyacht Australia ensured strong presence at the recent NZ Marine Superyacht Captains Forum held in conjunction with the Auckland International Boat Show and Rugby World Cup 2011.

Superyacht Australia chief executive MaryAnne Edwards said: “Attending these events are integral opportunities within our calendar to showcase the innovation of Australian marine manufacturers, and raise Australia’s profile as a destination for international superyachts. Our aim is to ensure Australia is on every superyacht cruising itinerary.”

Barry Jenkins chairman – Superyacht Australia spoke at the forum about Australia as an idyllic destination for more superyachts to cruise and the countries broad facilities for refit, repair and tourism. This panel also included representatives from New Zealand, Singapore, Indonesia, Tonga, Fiji and Tahiti.

“The forum provided an excellent platform for the key issues that are barriers to more superyachts cruising in Australian waters to be raised,” said Jenkins.

“Superyacht Australia will be focusing on addressing these issues to remove these barriers and drive more business for the sector,” he said.

Delegates including Superyacht captains had the opportunity to raise key issues they see as barriers for more superyachts cruising Australian waters and the Asia Pacific region. Other topical barriers discussed included Tax and Insurance and further topics included Legalities affecting superyacht captains and managing a successful refit.

The forum concluded with a facilitated session discussing the “ideal marina for superyachts” which generated considerable discussion and debate amongst delegates and will be used as a platform for the region to further develop their facilities for superyachts ensuring Asia Pacific destinations remain competitive with facilities offered in other key cruising destinations like the Caribbean.